Summary: The pattern that appears in the text indicates that there is a need for a refilling.

The pattern that appears in these verses as well as other places in Acts indicates

that there is a need for a refilling of the Holy Spirit. This is very important in the life of a believer.

Vs. 23 - Peter and John return to the fellowship of the believers. What com-

fort they were to these two men.

Vs. 24 - Three reasons why it is important to be “re-filled with the baptism in the

Holy Spirit:

1.) It enables us to live joyfully.

2.) It empowers us to serve.

3.) It always glorifies God.

* A mighty prayer meeting was berthed by the early Church.

Here is how they prayed:

1.) They lifted up their voices to God.

2.) They were in one accord.

3.) They pleaded their case before God.

Vs. 25-26 - Peter quotes from Psalms 2:1-2. It speaks of the coming of the Messiah and the establishment of the Kingdom of God.

Vs. 27-28 - God knew exactly what they would do to Jesus.

Vs. 29 - The Apostles pray for boldness. Boldness is not reckless impulsiveness.

* The Pattern for Boldness:

1.) Pray for Holy Spirit courage.

2.) Look for opportunities.

3.) Learn to accept rejection.

4.) Start in small areas of your life.

** The Apostles did not pray to be kept safe.

Vs. 30 - Where prayer is exercised, God breaks in with his supernatural acts of signs and wonders.

Vs. 31 - This is the first mentioning in Acts of a Holy Spirit “re-filling”. (By the way, it has never been done away with. God is willing to “fill” and “re-fill” all those who are hungry for more of Him.)

Vs. 32 - Spiritual unity is essential to usher in the Kingdom of God. “One can put a thousand to flight while two can put ten-thousand to flight”. (See Duet. 32:30.

Vs. 33 - These believers shared everything. When we realize that what we possess belongs to God - we can serve with others.

Vs. 34 - Do not mistake this for communism:

1.) The sharing was voluntary.

2.) What was given was what was needed to sustain the life.

3.) It was not a requirement.

Vs. 35 - This was an act of support to the Apostles.

What takes place is not a Biblical command.

Vs. 36 - 37 - Barnabas was a respected leader in the Church. Barnabas means “Son of Encouragement”. He sets the example for the whole Church by selling a field and putting the money at the Apostle’s feet.

These verses teach us:

1.) Refilling of the Holy Spirit is an essential and perpetual experience.

2.) Refilling of the Holy Spirit reinforces the initial experience of the baptism